Marion County closes voluntary shelter

After discussion with State Emergency Management officials, Marion County officials decided to open a voluntary shelter for evacuees and area residents at Marion High School for Friday night. The shelter, 1205 S. Main Street, opened after school closed, at 4 p.m. County Administrator Tim Harper said. Al Blake, school shelters coordinator, said the shelter closed at 8 a.m. Saturday.

Officials said tropical storm Hanna looked as if it may affect Marion County more than it was projected and they asked residents to stay on alert and follow developments by visiting the National Weather Service Web site.

Any resident coming to the shelter was to bring their medications, sleeping gear, entertainment for children, a flashlight and toiletries. Meals were not served.